3 Vacations in One!
Are you looking for all of the Magic of a Disney Parks vacation, but at a more relaxed pace? Look no further than Disney Cruise Line! With character meet and greets, Broadway style shows, activities for the whole family, PLUS stops at tropical destinations, a Disney Cruise checks all of the boxes! I recently sailed for the first time in a few years on a 5-night cruise, with two stops at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. It was the perfect vacation, with shows and activities, but also with plenty of relaxation! When I sailed, there were still several safety measures in place that have since been lifted, but even with the extra safety measures, it was everything my soul needed!
When you first step on the ship, you’re greeted by the head cheese, Captain Mickey! Walking on to a Disney Cruise Line ship is very special (if you know you know)!
After embarkation, you’re free to explore and enjoy the ship until your room is ready! I recommend packing your swimsuits in your carry-on to enjoy the pools and loungers once you’ve familiarized yourself with the ship. Most people will head to Cabanas for lunch, but I recommend finding the table service restaurant that’s open for lunch for an elevated menu and fewer people!
Once lunch is squared away, you’ll want to check the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app for everything you’ll be able to experience on your cruise. The app lists your daily plans (activities and excursions you’ve pre-booked), the times and locations of activities, such as character meet and greets, trivia, shows, deck parties, as well as your dining rotation and menus.
In addition, if you’re traveling with children, you’ll want to go check out their specific kids club. This is the only time parents are allowed inside the club, so you’ll want to take a peek at all of the fun that’s in store for your kids over the next several days!
Once you’ve completed the mandatory muster drill and your stateroom is ready, how you spend the rest of the cruise is up to you! That’s one of my favorite parts of a Disney Cruise, you can do as much or as little as you want! I like to fill up my time with character meet and greets, pool time fun and spa treatments.
Disney Cruise Line offers several different itineraries, with many of them being in the Caribbean, where you’ll enjoy Castaway Cay. This has always been one of my favorite ports because it’s quite simply one of the most relaxing places I’ve ever been. A little slice of paradise!
Each evening, there is a Broadway style show in the theater and your showtime will be opposite your dinner time (for example: if you have first dining, you’ll see the late show and if you have second dining, you’ll see the early show). With busy days, it can be tempting to skip out on the evening entertainment, but I highly recommend making some time for the shows! They really add to the whole Disney Cruise experience and are so beautifully done!
Character meet and greets extend well into the evening and I think this is one of the best times to see characters with shorter waits! In fact on my cruise, I didn’t wait to see any characters later in the evening.
(Keep in mind: masks were required inside at the time of my cruise, but are not currently required)
When it’s time to disembark on departure day, you’ll be sad to end your amazing vacation, but you’ll be filled with new unforgettable memories! Cruises are a beautiful way to disconnect from the world and reconnect with your family and friends! I’ll also add that cruises are really great for multi-generational family vacations or friend vacations! There’s no worrying about what’s for dinner, how to split the check or who will watch the kids. With rotational dining, kids clubs and activities that appeal to all ages and activity levels, there is truly something for everyone on a Disney Cruise!
I’d be honored to help you plan your Disney Cruise Vacation. Whether it’s your first time sailing or you’re a seasoned cruiser, you’ll want an expert on your side to help you navigate all of the ins and outs! Please contact me at rebeccam@ftmtravel.com or 319.240.7987 to begin planning your cruise!
